Have you ever wondered why so many charities send requests for money at the end of the year? Is it because people are more sentimental and generous during the holidays? Or do they feel guilty for keeping the return address labels, nickels or other inserts sent with the requests for money?

If I ran a charity, I'd send out an appeal just after tax season to take advantage of that "a-ha" moment when people realize they didn't donate much the previous year.

Still, now 'tis the season for charity, and I've just heard about the success of the National Volunteer Fire Council's Emergency Relief and Volunteer Firefighter Support funds, created to assist fire departments and firefighters after the hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. The Emergency Relief Fund assists volunteer and combination fire departments with equipment replacement and facility repair; the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund offers aid to individual volunteer firefighters and their families who have suffered tragic losses.

Together, the two funds have raised more than $200,000 not only from individual and business donations -- including $10,000 from FEMSA -- but also from state firefighters' associations and local departments' boot drives. The NVFC already has distributed almost 400 checks for $250 each to volunteer firefighters in the Gulf Coast area. Each name is submitted to and verified by NVFC representatives in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi.

NVFC Executive Director Heather Schafer told me about the heartfelt, moving letters from these firefighters and their families. Among the notes:

"We recently received a check for $250 from NVFC. We lost our home, business and town during the hurricane and have nothing to return to so your help at this time is greatly appreciated."

And, "From the bottom of our hearts we can't express the gratitude that we feel for your support during this difficult time. We have lost our home, business and our fire station -- thank you for the check."

I'm very cautious to not abuse this editorial space and promote causes, especially at this time of year, but need knows no season. Family comes first, and our fire service family is in need. Fire departments constantly give, but they aren't used to asking for what they need. So I'll ask on their behalf.

Go to www.nvfc.org to make a donation online or mail it to: NVFC Emergency Relief Fund, P.O. Box 223202, Chantilly, VA 20153. All donations are tax-deductible.

Share the wonder this holiday season.

Janet Wilmoth, Editorial Director
janet@firechief.com